Recently, a local driver was shaken when a log was thrown off an overpass and smashed into the headlight of their vehicle. Thankfully, no one was injured — but the damage was significant. It’s a terrifying reminder of how quickly the unexpected can happen on the road.
But from an insurance perspective, a big question comes up:
Is this a comprehensive claim or a collision claim?
The answer matters — a lot.
Collision vs. Comprehensive: What’s the Difference?
If your car is damaged by something you hit or by another vehicle, that’s generally a collision claim. These typically have a higher deductible and can have a bigger impact on your insurance premium.
Comprehensive coverage, on the other hand, is for events that are out of your control, like:
- Falling objects
- Theft or vandalism
- Animal strikes
- Weather-related damage
In this situation — a log being thrown from an overpass and striking a moving vehicle — this is considered a comprehensive claim. The key here is that the object was airborne and moving, which classifies it as a falling object, making it a better-case scenario for the policyholder from a claims standpoint.
What If the Log Was Already on the Ground?
If the driver had hit a log that was lying in the road, that would shift the classification to a collision claim. The difference in coverage classification could affect out-of-pocket costs and future premiums, so it’s important to report the situation accurately.
Could the Thrower Be Held Responsible?
Another layer to this is liability. In cases like this, it’s often assumed the object was thrown by kids — a prank with potentially deadly consequences.
So the question arises: Could the parents of the child be held responsible?
Possibly. If the child is found and is young enough not to fully understand the consequences of their actions (think under age 8), then the parents’ homeowners insurance might provide liability coverage for the damages caused.
However, this can depend on:
- The child’s age
- Whether they understood the potential to cause harm
- Local laws around parental responsibility
If the child is older and it’s determined they acted willfully or maliciously, there could also be criminal charges — and homeowners coverage might not apply.
What Can You Do as a Driver?
- Maintain full coverage. Comprehensive coverage is relatively inexpensive and can save you in situations exactly like this.
- Keep your dashcam rolling. If something happens, having video footage can help you prove how the damage occurred — critical when determining claim classification.
- Review your policy limits. Make sure your deductibles and liability limits still make sense for your needs.
Final Thoughts
Unpredictable situations like this show why it’s so important to understand the details of your insurance policy — especially the difference between comprehensive and collision. If you’re ever unsure, contact your agent. That’s what we’re here for.
📞 Need a policy review or have questions about your current coverage?
VanScoter Insurance Agency is here to help. Contact us today and make sure you’re covered — for whatever life throws your way (even flying logs).
